Yin Yoga is a modern style of yoga which is informed by traditional Chinese medicine. In contrast to a Yang practice such as Vinyasa Yoga where we are working with the muscles,
In Yin Yoga we want the muscles to relax so that we can get into the deeper connective tissues within the body. While the muscles respond to flowing, repetitive movement and warmth, the connective tissue can be accessed through supported stillness and coolness. In this style of Yoga the majority of the postures are seated or supine, with each shape held for between 3 and 8 minutes!
There are so many benefits to adding Yin Yoga into your practice, here are just a few:
⭐Improved circulation
⭐Improved mobility
⭐Calms the mind
⭐Emotional release
“If you gently stretch connective tissue by holding a yin pose for a long time, the body will respond by making them a little longer and stronger—which is exactly what you want,” Paul Grilley
Even though Yin Yoga is a very slow practice, it is challenging in its own way. With very little movement to keep the mind occupied with, we are often confronted with many different emotions. We might choose to sit with these challenges or perhaps use the breath as a guide during difficult moments. This practice can be incredibly powerful for both body and mind, so why not give it a go?
If you’re curious about trying Yin Yoga you can join Debs on Friday mornings for seasonal Yin at 10.45am, or join Freya next month on Friday 12th May for a 90 minute practice: Bathing In Stillness Yin Yoga And Meditation.